Start your trip in Riga's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with historic landmarks, churches, museums, and unique architecture. Visit the Riga Cathedral, the largest medieval church in the Baltic States, or take a stroll down the iconic Alberta Street to admire the art nouveau buildings. Stop by the Riga Central Market, the largest indoor market in Europe, and try some local cuisine.
Take a deeper dive into Riga's art scene and cultural heritage. Visit the impressive National Museum of Art, featuring more than 52,000 works of art from the 18th century to contemporary art. Take a guided tour of the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, a stunning neo-classical building, to see a world-class performance. End your day at Livu Square, a lively pedestrian area, filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.
Enjoy Riga's greenery by visiting the Bastejkalns Park, located in the heart of the city. Walk through its charming alleyways, cross the bridges, and admire the colorful flower beds. Take a boat ride on the Riga Canal, and see the city from a different perspective. Visit the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, an outdoor museum showcasing the traditional Latvian way of life.
Experience the modern side of Riga by visiting the Riga Art Space, a contemporary art gallery showcasing works of Latvian and international artists. Take a walk to the Spikeri Quarter, a former industrial area turned into a cultural hub, featuring art installations, cafes, and events. End your trip at the National Library of Latvia, a modern building with a unique architecture, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Riga from the top.
Getting around Riga is easy and affordable with public transport. Purchase a 24-hour or 72-hour pass for unlimited rides on buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Taxis are available, and Uber is also an option. As Riga is a walkable city, bring comfortable shoes and enjoy exploring on foot.
Estimated Travel Costs: Public transport pass: $-$$, Taxi: $$-$$$
For art and culture enthusiasts, consider adding the Latvian National Museum of Art's special exhibitions. For a relaxed day, take a short trip outside of Riga to the seaside resort town of Jurmala. For foodies, sample the famous Latvian black bread and the local beer Alusfermentējums. If you have more time, explore other neighborhoods, such as Riga's Art Nouveau District or the nearby town of Sigulda.
Riga International Airport (RIX) is the largest airport in Latvia, located 6.5 miles west of the city center. It serves as the hub for airBaltic, with flights to various destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.